" I'm elated," said Samuel B. McDonald, the CEO from 2000-2001. "Not only turning (40), but still growing, and that it's open up to all people and that's the important thing."

He said the local chapter has done a lot for the community.

"Jobs were the focus," McDonald said. "Jobs will solve many of our problems."

The current CEO, Patrick Franklin, said the local chapter not only helps people find jobs, but it provides the youth with teen outreach programs, helps homeowners fight foreclosure and helps provide housing.

"We're working very hard to keep families in their homes," Franklin said. "If you don't have a roof over your head, what else matters? We can help you find a job, that's very important, but right now our emphasis is on the family."

There are several events planned to mark the anniversary.

A Heritage luncheon is scheduled for Feb. 28 at the MLK Memorial in West Palm Beach.

For more information, contact the Urban League of Palm Beach County at 561-833-1461.